LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Sumner Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Sumner Falls
Sumner Falls sits along the Connecticut River in Hartland, New Hampshire, and is best appreciated as a series of rapids and cascading ledges rather than a single vertical drop. The spot is a favorite with paddlers and anglers looking for lively current and clear river scenery; the falls unfold across a stretch of river that offers multiple bright vantage points for photographs, fishing, or simply listening to flowing water. The surroundings retain a quiet, wooded character that makes the area feel tucked away from busy roads. Access to the falls is via a short hiking route that brings you close to the water’s edge; the approach and viewpoints reward a modest effort with a sense of solitude and seasonal color. If you’re planning an overnight, North Hartland Lake Beach (VT) campground lies just 3.43 km away, making it convenient to pair a morning at the falls with an evening by the lake.
The Setting
Sumner Falls sits at 308 feet along the Connecticut River, in the coastal lowlands of New Hampshire.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Sumner Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The climb is steady in places, so plan for sustained uphill and downhill walking; the route is best suited to hikers comfortable with a moderate effort rather than a flat stroll. Trail users should allow time for stops at multiple viewpoints along the river; with the nearby North Hartland Lake Beach campground 3.43 km away, the hike is an easy addition to a longer outdoor trip. There is no USFS trail number or surface/grade/class data provided for this route in the materials supplied, so conditions can vary—bring appropriate footwear and expect natural, undeveloped trail conditions.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sumner Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sumner Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit for optimal water flow and scenic beauty. Summer is also popular for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the water as the rocks can be slippery, and the currents are strong. Always supervise children and pets.
Current Water Conditions
1,550 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 112 years of record
4.45 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CONNECTICUT RIVER AT WEST LEBANON, NH (11 km away).
Today
Moderate
1674 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1716 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
1782 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
1636 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
1696 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
1996 cfs
5/10Sat
Low
1740 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early June, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near North Hartland hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Sumner Falls is located off Route 5 in Hartland, New Hampshire, near the Connecticut River. It is easily accessible by car, and the area is well-marked with signs.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the site, which is free to use.
Elevation
308 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.564515° N, -72.380925° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the water can be slippery. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the river, and consider visiting during the fall for beautiful foliage views.
Where to Stay
Spooner House
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites White River Junction by IHG
The Shire Woodstock
Align Inn Vermont
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
NORTH HARTLAND LAKE BEACH (VT)
2.1 miles away · 3 sites
Overview North Hartland Lake is a US Army Corps of Engineers day use facility located on the Ottauquechee River in North Hartland, VT. Close to the towns of Lebanon, New Hampshire, and Hartford, Vermont, North Hartland Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation in the Upper Valley.Recreation Swimming, fishing, paddling, and boating are all popular activities at North Hartland Lake. A playground, horseshoe pits, volleyball nets, picnic tables and grills are available for all to enjoy. Fa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Quechee Gorge and the town of Woodstock, Vermont, which offers shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, including herons and eagles, as well as fish in the river.
Cities near Sumner Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Writing about Sumner Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.